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Table of Contents
Copyright and Author Radio Mobile............................................................. 1 Copyright and Author Radio Mobile User Guide.......................................... 1 Contributors and Internet Links Radio Mobile.............................................. 1 Radio Mobile Program Introduction ............................................................. 2 Radio Mobile Program Description .............................................................. 2 Radio Propagation and Coverage Basics ....................................................... 3 6.1 Radio Receiver Operation........................................................................ 4 6.2 The deciBel (dB) ...................................................................................... 4 6.3 Decibel Mathematics ............................................................................... 5 6.4 deciBel and Radio Standards .................................................................. 5 6.5 Propagation Modes .................................................................................. 6 6.6 K factor ................................................................................................... 7 7 Propagation and Signal Loss.......................................................................... 7 7.1 Free Space loss ....................................................................................... 8 7.2 Diffraction Loss ........................................................................................ 8 7.3 Total Loss Between Sites ........................................................................ 8 8 Radio Wave Propagation ............................................................................. 10 8.1 Fresnel Zones ........................................................................................ 10 8.2 Fresnel Zone Radius and Earth Clearance ............................................ 12 8.3 Fresnel Zone Numbering ....................................................................... 14 8.4 Fresnel Zone 1 (F1) ............................................................................... 15 8.5 Fresnel Zone 2 (F2) ............................................................................... 15 8.6 Fresnel Zone 3 (F3) ............................................................................... 15 8.7 Fresnel Zone Effect ............................................................................... 15 8.8 Specular Reflection ................................................................................ 16 8.9 Inter Symbol Interference....................................................................... 17 9 Path Reliability Point to Point Radio .......................................................... 18 9.1 Radio Path Fade Margin ........................................................................ 18 9.2 Point to Point Reliability ......................................................................... 19 9.3 Radio Coverage Probability ................................................................... 20 10 Geographic Coordinate Systems .............................................................. 20 10.1 Earth Reference Points Map Datums .............................................. 21 10.2 Latitude and Longitude ....................................................................... 22 10.3 Maidenhead Locator System (QRA Amateur Radio) ....................... 23 10.4 Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) ............................................... 24 10.5 Military Grid Reference System (MGRS) ............................................ 25 10.6 Geosys ............................................................................................... 26 11 Elevation Data and Elevation Maps .......................................................... 26 11.1 Digital Terrain Elevation Data (DTED) ................................................ 27 11.2 Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) ....................................... 27 11.3 Using downloaded Elevation Data ...................................................... 28 12 Radio Mobile Program Installation ............................................................ 29 13 First Time Program Start up Options......................................................... 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 Version 3.9 i Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
There is also a Radio Mobile Yahoo group. The group is a discussion centre for questions, answers, suggestions and solutions. The Yahoo Group is located at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Radio_Mobile_Deluxe/
The program uses terrain elevation data from either the SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) or the DTED (Digital Terrain Elevation Data) databases that are both available free on the Internet. Other formats for elevation are available; however, these two are the most common. The program will produce a coloured plot of radio coverage from 1 or multiple base stations showing expected receive signal levels. Levels are displayed using any of the following units specified by the user: S-units V dBm V/m
Coverage contours can be displayed as either a pass/fail (above/below a user specified signal level). Coverage can also be displayed using a rainbow of coverage, using various colours to show various signal levels. The program has the ability to combine this coverage prediction map together with a road or other geographic map. The plot can be quickly used to determine if communication from a specific location is possible.
The Radio Mobile program works mostly in deciBels. Where input is required from a normally linear device, such as transmitter power output or receiver sensitivity, the program provides the ability to enter number in either Watts or V (linear) or dBm (logarithmic). The program will convert these numbers to a dB value for program use.
Comparing 2 voltage levels, If voltages of 1 V and 0.5 V are compared, 20 * log10 1 V 0.5 V = 6.02 dB.
Radio Mobile uses a computer algorithm called the Longley Rice model to determine signal loss for non Line of Sight radio paths. Line of sight paths use a calculation called the two ray method. This method takes into account Free Space Loss only.
6.6 K factor
It was discovered by the British during early radar research (at really high frequencies, around 300 MHz in the late 1930s) and later by AT&T at Bell Laboratories, that radio waves travel a little further and actually bend with the surface of the earth. The bending is proportional to frequency. The higher the frequency, the less the bending. VHF radio systems have better coverage than UHF systems due to the better bending of VHF frequencies. After some extensive analysis of propagation, it was determined that if the diameter of the earth is increased by approximately 1.33 or 4/3, radio waves do travel in straight lines over this larger earth. The 4/3 earth radius is called the K factor and continually shows up in radio path design and propagation theory. The earths curvature, as it begins to protrude into a radio path as distance between sites increases, is commonly called the earth bulge. The K factor is the difference between performing radio propagation studies as line of sight paths and actual radio paths. It is also worth noting that K is another of the variables that changes with atmospheric conditions. The typical value of K is 4/3. However, it can range anywhere from about 2/3 to up as high as 10. These ranges do not occur often; however, they can and have occurred on microwave test ranges. K usually has a tendency to increase, producing less earth bulge, and less loss between radio sites. K can range up to 10, depending on atmospheric conditions. K can also decrease. Sometimes, K can decrease to as low as 2/3 or 0.66. Again, this does not happen often, however, can occur. Effect is an increase in signal loss and lower signal level at the receiver.
Many of these loss parameters, such as duplexer and antenna losses and gains, are available from manufacturers specification sheets. Connector loss is a parameter commonly overlooked in many calculations. Depending on connector type, it can be from 0.2 to 1.0 dB per connector. Some connector types have more loss than others. It also depends on the quality of a specific connector and experience of the connector installer. Frequency is a factor in connector loss. The higher the frequency, the more critical the connections and possibly, the higher the loss. When purchasing connectors, you get what you pay for. Yes, N connectors cost more. However, their loss can be significantly lower at higher frequencies. However, if improperly installed, there can be a significant increase in loss. Follow the installation guide and cable cutting chart when installing any connector. The higher the frequency, the more critical the connector and the more loss through the connector. Use the wrong or a poor connector and loss increases substantially. As an example, the standard type UHF connector is only rated to a maximum frequency of 150 MHz. Version 3.9 9 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng. December 30, 2011
360
540
Main Signal
Fres ne
l zo n
e1( F Fre 1) sn e lz
one
Reflected Signal
2Z (F2 )
Transmitter
Receiver
Fres ne
l zo n
e1(
F1)
Figure 3. Fresnel Zone Radius and Earth Clearance The diameter of the Fresnel Zone (half the diameter is the radius) of the elliptical cylinder can be calculated, based on frequency of the signal and distance between the 2 endpoint radio sites. The distance between the ground and the actual main signal path is known as Fresnel Zone clearance. The important component of the Fresnel Zone is the clearance between the Fresnel zone ellipse and the surface of the earth. Figure 3 shows the Fresnel zone radius and Fresnel zone earth clearance along a radio path. If the ratio of Fresnel zone earth clearance Fresnel zone radius is greater than 60%, the radio path is considered clear, line of sight and incurs no diffraction loss. This is also referred to as Free Space Loss. The 60% clearance (and not 100% clearance) is due to the bending of radio waves over the surface of the earth. This understanding of Fresnel zones and their effect helps know the how and why that radio coverage can be predicted using mathematics and computers.
Fresnel Zone 1 (F1) Fresnel Zone 2 (F2) Fresnel Zone 3 (F3) Fresnel Zone 4 (F4)
360 540 (same as 180) 720 (same as 360) 900 (same as 180)
What is heard in the receiver is a rapid increase/decrease of signal, often called picket fencing. The rapid increase and decrease of signal from a moving radio or vehicle is called Rayleigh fading. It is a direct result of Fresnel zone reflections coming and going in and out of phase as the vehicle moves down the highway. Point to point paths also make use of Fresnel zone calculations. For point-topoint paths, antenna locations are fixed and there is no rapid signal fade due to an antenna moving. There are long-term effects (over several hours) that are taken into account when performing Fresnel Zone calculations.
The above table shows some types of modulation where bits transmitted over a radio link represent more bits from the original data transmission bit stream. A received symbol can represent 64 or more bits of actual payload data. As symbols are received at the antenna and passed on to the receiver, they are decoded from the RF signal to the 1s and 0s of the original transmission. Version 3.9 17 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
Symbols received along the main path are received at a specific data rate set by the radio transmit clock. This may be anywhere from 9.6 kbps to 50 Mbps or more. Clocks at each end of a radio link must be synchronized so that data is interpreted within the correct timing and format. The clocks set a specific Symbol window time where a 1 or a 0 is valid and can be decoded within that window. If a reflected signal is received, it is delayed by the difference in path length. If this delay is outside the Symbol window, data bits received from the main path signal will become confused with delayed data bits from the reflected path. This confusion between received data bits is called Inter Symbol Interference. The higher the data rate, the smaller the symbol decode window and the more critical that a reflected signal does not interrupt data transmission along the main path.
Obviously, the higher the fade margin, the higher the probability that a usable communication signal will be received, and the smaller the coverage area displayed to maintain this fade margin. For most mobile systems, a fade margin of 6 to 10 dB is acceptable. Critical systems such as police, fire and ambulance may require higher reliabilities and require higher fade margins during system design. Coverage for mobile radios will always be greater than for a handheld radio. The difference is due to the smaller and lower gain antennas and smaller capture area of the handheld antenna and the lower transmit power of a handheld compared to a mobile radio. It is worth noting that cellular radio systems and to a limited extent, public trunked radio systems use fade margins of the order of 10 to 20 dB. To keep cellular and trunked telephones small, antennas are small and inefficient. They are also often close to the human body that reduces antenna efficiency. Therefore, more signal level is required to maintain a reliable communication path from a cell site to a cellular telephone.
MGRS Military Grid Reference System is based on and is similar to UTM coordinates. Radio Mobile initially defaults to using Latitude and Longitude and the QRA (Maidenhead Locator System). The alternate coordinate system can be changed under options. Select Options, Coordinates and any of the above 4 coordinate systems can be set as the alternate. Latitude and Longitude remain always available. Note also that the status bar at the bottom right of the page will show up to 3 coordinate systems of where the cursor, as displayed on the map, is located. Simply check off the boxes of the coordinate systems desired. When moving the cursor around on the map, the display continually shows cursor location and elevation in metres at the cursor point. Note that the X-Y reference, if selected, shows the cursor location in pixels, selected when the size of the map (in pixels) is chosen for map display during map extraction. Pixels and map resolution are defined under Map Properties when extracting a map. The X-Y reference 0, 0 point is at the top left corner of the map.
These locations cause slight shifts in reference points of a map and shift in location of a specific point on the surface. The shifts are small and for the most part have limited effect on calculation or display of radio coverage. Surveyors are concerned about the 200 m to 300 m differences between the various reference points; however, radio coverage is not significantly affected.
10.2.1
Decimal Degrees
Sometimes Latitude and Longitude are specified in Decimal Degrees and do not show minutes or seconds of arc. A location may be specified as 51.1234 N and 114.0456 W. Most computer programs, including Radio Mobile, will accept latitude and longitude entered as decimal degrees. It will convert these numbers into the required format used for calculation. Note also that Radio Mobile latitude and longitude defaults are specified as: Latitude Longitude Positive numbers are North Latitude, north of the equator, Negative numbers are South Latitude, south of the equator. Positive numbers are east of 0, east longitude Negative numbers are west of 0, west longitude
Following the grid square letters are a series of numbers: 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 digits. These numbers are the metric UTM coordinates and are the Easting and Northing numbers. The number of digits specifies how accurate a location is. The series of numbers is split equally (even number of digits) for Easting and Northing respectively and specifies a location to the following accuracy: 1+1 digits specify distances to 10,000 m (10 km) 2+2 digits specify distances to 1,000 m (1 km) 3+3 digits specify distances to 100 m 4+4 digits specify distances to 10 m 5+5 digits specify distances to 1 m
A typical Military Grid Reference System location appears as: 11U QS 06277 58781
10.6 Geosys
Geosys input data is similar to UTM, however, a difference reference point is used. Geosys is a Geospatial mapping company that provides very localized elevation data. This data uses a variation of UTM coordinates.
13.1 GPS
Radio Mobile has the ability to accept GPS data from a GPS receiver. GPS data must be in standard GPS NEMA data format. Data can be saved in a text file for later use comparing a GPS location to a coverage plot. The various input parameters, com port, etc. are set in this window.
13.2 APRS
Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) is primarily an Amateur Radio application where interactive packet data (transmit and receive) is stored to indicate location of a receiver along a route or map. Map location data is shared with all other operators who may be monitoring an APRS network. Active units can be displayed on a map and shared with other users.
13.3 Internet
A number of Internet options must be checked and/or set under Internet Options.
13.3.1
Proxy
Proxy settings are used if Internet access available uses a Proxy server. Set the proxy name and port, if assigned. Version 3.9 30 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
13.3.2
Web Update
Web update can automatically check if there are any program updates to Radio Mobile. Check the box Check every time when the program starts for a verification of the latest Radio Mobile Version. Alternatively, for a manual update, click Help and Check for program update. A dialogue box will be returned stating the version of program is either up to date or that a new version is available. If a new version is available, the option is presented to download the new version. Note that downloading a new version does not change any of the program settings previously defined by the user. There are 2 Internet locations that may be visited to check for program updates, one at cplus.org; the second at ve2dbe as shown. It is best to check both of these locations, in case one is not available at the time of checking the program version currently installed.
13.3.3
SRTM
SRTM specifies type and how SRTM files will be obtained. First, files may be obtained from the Internet as required. Second, files may be obtained from the Internet and locally stored on the computer hard drive for later use. Third, files may be obtained from the local hard drive only. The option is convenient when Internet access is not available.
The local file location must be specified where files will be stored when downloaded. These files will then be available for future use. It is suggested that SRTM files, once downloaded, be stored in a common location on your computer. Within the Radio Mobile directory are folders SRTM0.3, SRTM1, and SRTM3. Alternatively, the user may specify a separate directory for storage of elevation data. This directory must be identified in SRTM options so Radio Mobile knows where to obtain elevation data. SRTM data at 1/3 arc second (10 m elevation resolution) is available for USA and is referred to as SRTM0.3 data.
Specifying the type of SRTM data will automatically identify the FTP (File Transfer Protocol) server. There are 3 sites available (Site 2 is Rogers website) where SRTM data can be located when required. Roger has spent time filling in known holes in SRTM data, particularly along the Canada/US border.
13.3.4
Land Cover
Land cover is data of trees and other cover on the earths surface. Options for land cover are similar to those of SRTM data. Specify the file storage location and select the Internet FTP location.
13.3.5
Map files identify various geographic maps that may be used to merge with a coverage map. These maps will show roads and other significant points to provide a local reference for the coverage plot. A file in the Radio Mobile program, Map_Link.txt file in the Radio Mobile directory, must be edited as described during program installation. Until this file is edited, some of the maps will be grayed out and not be available for merging with a Radio Mobile coverage plot. Note that, after editing the Map_Link.txt file, the program must be restarted for the changes to take effect. The following Internet map services may be available: Open Street Map TerraServer Toporama Virtual Earth Google Map YahooMap MapQuest
If data is extracted directly from the stored database, the file window is brought up to specify the various data bases, similar to that specified in the Map Properties window. File locations must be the same as in the Map Properties window. A very important parameter under Elevation data is profile extraction, located at the bottom of the window. Default number is 158, meaning that only 158 records will be used for any profile created. It is best to set this to 2,000, the maximum number of records currently permitted by Radio Mobile. Otherwise, coverage will not use the maximum number of elevation points and may give erroneous output when calculating coverage plots.
13.4.1
Land Cover
13 different land cover items are identified in this list. An overall average type, height and density of trees is shown, along with other types of ground obstructions. These ground obstructions can be modified for a particular geographic area if required.
13.5 S-Unit
S-Units are a signal level method used by Amateur Radio operators. Radio Mobile uses its own standard, the standard traditionally used in North America (IARU Region 2). There is also an International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) Region 1 S-Unit standard that is available. IARU Region 1 represents member countries in Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Northern Asia. Alternatively, a custom standard can be created by the user and used by the program. S-Units are used mostly in Amateur Radio and are rarely used for commercial coverage. Version 3.9 33 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng. December 30, 2011
13.6 Toolbar
Use this option to add or remove icons from the Radio Mobile toolbar, always displayed at the top of the screen. A number of default icons are placed on the toolbar initially. Users may customize their own toolbar for their own functions. The toolbar can be modified at any time. Add or remove check marks on each icon box to add or remove that icon from the toolbar. Toolbar icons can also be accessed by right clicking on gray space in the toolbar itself. The toolbar selection window will be presented.
13.7 Coordinates
Coordinates sets the input type available as coordinate data. Latitude and Longitude are always available as defaults. Other input parameters are: QRA, the Maidenhead Locator system, also known as Amateur Radio grid squares, UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) MGRS, the Military Grid Reference System, Geosys, the coordinate reference system based on World Geographic Survey 1984 WGS84)
For more information, see Geographic Coordinate Systems for a description of the various location grids used for location of a point on the earth.
14.1.1
1. Highlight any input box used for any data entry. 2. Either click the M metric conversion tool on the toolbar or use Ctrl M to access and use the metric conversion tool. 3. Select the correct conversion (metres, kilometres etc.), using the Units button. 4. Enter your British unit (feet, miles etc.) 5. Click and the converted data will be entered into that data entry box.
Base Network is a first example and has default input parameters used when the program is opened for the very first time. When the program is closed, the program will ask to save 3 files in the current default directory. The 3 files are: *.net *.map *.jpg
These 3 files are used the next time the program is opened to set the operating parameters for the Radio Mobile program. The files are always opened from the last active network directory. Version 3.9 35 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng. December 30, 2011
It is suggested that each time a new project is started for a new geographic area, that a new network folder be created to store the data and coverage information for a site or group of sites. When the save files dialogue box comes up, right click on each of the 3 files. The file selected can be renamed and saved in a network folder specified by the user. Perform this task for each of the 3 files. The next time the program is opened, that directory will be the previous active file directory, therefore files will be opened from and stored in that directory. Alternative when a new network and coverage map is created, manually use the file command to Save Network As and define a folder, the name of the network and file location. The option is then given as to where files for that network are stored. Manually using the newly created directory, all files for that coverage plot will be saved in this new location. This becomes the new default file storage location for that specific network. This assists with your own file management to keep all files relating to that particular network in their own folder. When exiting the program, the program will ask to save the 3 files in the new default directory. The program always asks before saving files. Manually defining a network folder first ensures the file location is defined and files can be found and reloaded as a project progresses or changes. The last directory used always becomes the default file location when the Radio Mobile program is restarted. If it is required to work on a different network, from the File menu, Open Networks and navigate to the correct folder holding the Network files required. This will become the new default file storage location, until changed again to a new or different network.
As the various input parameters for the program are defined and have specific data entered, the default names can be changed to better describe the network and various radios, units, systems and the operating parameters for the overall network. Label names can be changed for any of the following input parameters: Network System Unit
Make use of the label fields; it makes it so much easier to look at the program next week or next month and remember the setup and input parameters used for a specific network and coverage plot. It is much easier to look at a coverage plot that has labels such as: Network System UHF coverage Base radio, mobile radio, handheld radio December 30, 2011
The 3 parameters are defined: Net or Network defines an overall radio group and set of operating parameters. It defines the frequency band for the network. The relationships between the various units and systems are specified as Network properties. System Defines the specific operating parameters of any radio Unit. This includes transmitter power, receiver sensitivity, line loss and antenna height, type, pattern and gain. Each radio is a Unit. This includes base stations, repeaters, mobiles and handhelds. Unit parameters define the geographic location and elevation of a radio.
Unit
Note that the 3 inputs, Network, System and Unit are related. A unit has a specific location. A Unit can be assigned to a single System of operating parameters to produce a coverage plot. Many Units can use the same System. Multiple Units can be placed at the same location if multiple systems are required at a single Unit location. See the section Membership explaining the allocation and relationship between Units and Systems. Program users must ensure input parameters are correct. The program does not check for input data errors; it either will not draw a coverage plot, or the coverage plot will be in error. For example, a VHF network may have VHF mobile, handheld or base station Units. Systems may be defined for each of the units within a network. If incorrect system parameters are programmed, such as incorrect antenna gain for a 430 MHz system instead of a VHF system, the program cannot recognize this error. Systems for mobile, handheld and base station or repeater units will be different and must all include realistic radio operating parameters for the frequency in use. A common mistake is to define antenna cable loss the same for VHF or UHF systems. Cable loss increases at higher frequencies. Enter the correct System operating parameters. Specify the correct System for each Unit.
Radio Mobile Program Operating Guide 18.1 Status Bar Left Side
Click anywhere on the map and a set of intersecting red lines are displayed. The intersection is referred to as the cursor. The left block of the status bar displays the location of the cursor. The following information is displayed: Cursor position in Latitude and Longitude Cursor position in selected alternate display units, Maidenhead, UTM, Military Grid Reference or Geosys Rectangular X Y coordinate on the map selected. 0, 0 is the lower left corner of the map. Elevation of the cursor point in metres. Type and description of land cover encountered
As the mouse is moved over the map, the mouse position is continually updated in the status bar.
19 Cursor Block
When the left mouse button is clicked, red dotted cross hairs will appear, along with the Elevation Grid data block. The Elevation Grid data block is a 5 X 5 square showing the elevation of the cursor at the centre of the map grid. Surrounding squares show elevation in surrounding pixels around the cursor position. This display feature is useful when looking for the top of a hill in a small area.
The map should have a pixel resolution that meets the resolution of the elevation map data available. Either adjust the pixel size of the map or the size in kilometres to balance the resolution of the map with the resolution of the elevation map available. Step 1g Set file locations of the elevation database(s) source. First set the format of the database, SRTM, DTED, BIL, etc. Using the Browse button, set the correct file location in the computer where your database map files are stored. There are 5 locations defined where map information may be stored. Hierarchy of map lookup is from the bottom up. The bottom line is the first location where the program will look for elevation data. The top line is the last location option. One way of operating uses GTOPO 30 (30 arc second data) as the first option and SRTM as the final option. More than 3 different elevation databases is probably overkill, unless specific maps are available for an area of interest. As data is extracted, improved data will overwrite less accurate data. For example, if GTOPO is the first alternative (bottom line), SRTM set as the top line, SRTM will overwrite GTOPO data as it is extracted, creating a more detailed map. Obviously, the map location on the earth may govern what computer mapping data is available for elevation data. SRTM is probably the most universal. Step 1h If ignore missing files is not checked, map extraction will stop and an error message will be displayed if data cannot be found either locally on the computer or on the Internet. Missing areas on a map, due to holes in map data or simply a missing map, will show as a blue area on the extracted display. Version 3.9 44 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
Step 1i Extract the elevation map. An elevation map will be displayed based on the input parameters and location supplied. It will either use a rainbow of colours showing elevation or it will be in a gray scale, depending on options set. Radio coverage will be overlaid on top of this map.
21 Radio Stations
A radio station, either a handheld, mobile, base station or repeater is assembled using 3 major parts of the program. 1. A Unit that defines the location of the radio 2. A System that defines the operating parameters, transmit power, receive sensitivity, antenna type and height and feed line loss. 3. A Network that governs operating frequency, a Units operating parameters by association with the correct system and which Units are part of a particular Network.
22 Units
A Unit is a radio at a defined site location. All base stations, repeaters, mobile or handheld radios are referred to as a Unit by the program. Unit labels default to Unit 1, Unit 2, etc. When defining the various units for a specific application, change the name to a site name or description, base station, mobile, handheld, etc. Radio Mobile calculates using latitude and longitude as positive and negative numbers. Anytime latitude and longitude locations are entered, there is a box to allow changing to the correct hemisphere of the world. The default box in the Latitude column that says N. Click on the box, it will be changed to S. Longitude works similarly. Default box displays E. Click on the box; it will change to W. Defaults for Latitude and Longitude are North Latitude (+ number) and East Longitude (+ number). Latitudes and Longitudes continue to be displayed as plus (+) and minus (-) numbers. Ensure the correct hemisphere is selected. Radio mobile uses the convention: North Latitude is positive (+) East Longitude is positive (+) South Latitude is negative (-) West Longitude is negative (-) Step 2 Open File, Unit Properties Menu.
Step 2d Style refers to the label and icon identifying the specific unit. Enabled specifies whether the radio unit will be displayed on the map. Transparent makes the text label transparent so that other details can be read through the printing. Careful selection of colours will allow the label to continue to be displayed in readable format. Default text colour is white on a black background. No Label turns off the label text entirely. It is useful when using coloured icons that already define what the specific unit is. Left, Centre and Right move the text label in relation to the icon. Useful when multiple units are displayed, cluttering the viewing window. Back colour is the background colour for the text label. Default colour is black. Fore colour is the print colour for the text label. The slider at the bottom is a method for selecting the icon to display that particular unit. An example of the unit is always shown in the lower right of the Unit display window.
Step 2f When unit properties have been defined, click OK to close the Unit Properties window.
23 Systems
A System defines the specific operating parameters for a radio unit. Operating parameters include: Transmitter power output, Receiver sensitivity and threshold level Antenna type Antenna gain Antenna pattern Feed line, duplexer, filter and other losses
The default system name should be changed to a name representing each unique radio unit. Different Systems are required as radios may have the same power output; however, antenna height, gain, cable loss, multicoupler, duplexer and filter loss may be different for various radio units. Therefore, a specific system or multiple system sets of parameters should be defined for each radio unit. Mobile and handheld radio units have different operating parameters. Handhelds have a lower antenna gain and no feed line loss. Mobile radios may have a wave antenna, a 5/8 or a higher gain collinear antenna. Cable loss for all systems will vary with frequency of operation. Step 3 The system variables define the operating parameters for different types of radio units in the network. This includes base stations, repeaters, mobiles, handhelds, etc. Step 3a Change the System name to correspond with the associated radio unit. Step 3b Enter transmit power output in Watts or dBm. The corresponding value will be automatically calculated. Step 3c Enter receiver threshold sensitivity in either V or dBm (not both). The corresponding value will be automatically calculated. Step 3d Enter total feed line loss between transmitter and antenna. Remember to include: Coaxial cable loss varies with frequency and length of cable Duplexer used Multicoupler if used Any additional filters used that may be in line between transmitter or receiver and antenna Connectors for type N connectors, 0.5 dB loss is typical per connector. UHF connectors have higher loss; include 1.0 dB each for these connectors.
Step 3e Antenna type enter the type of antenna used. Several types are available from the library in Radio Mobile. Omni antennas have a perfectly circular pattern. Cardioid antennas represent a typical offset pattern using multiple dipole antenna.
Note the View Option. It can be used to observe the antenna pattern used. The pattern represents the antenna pattern, plus antenna gain as dictated by the selected antenna pattern. It also includes the direction of the antenna as specified by antenna azimuth. Step 3f Antenna gain is available from the manufacturer. VHF and UHF systems usually specify antenna gain in dBd (gain relative to a dipole). Microwave and spread spectrum systems usually specify gain as dBi (gain relative to an isotropic radiator). Ensure the correct field and value are entered; the corresponding gain value (for either dBi or dBd) will be automatically calculated. As an additional note, handheld antennas are usually a negative gain. First, they are usually shorter than a quarter wave length. Second, they are next to the human body that reduces their efficiency. Step 3g Enter antenna height in metres. Note that this antenna height is then defined for this system. Antenna height can be temporarily changed in several modules, when performing a coverage plot, etc. Step 3h Typical cable loss is entered in dB per metre for the cable and frequency in use. If the antenna is changed in height manually, for a specific unit or site in either the coverage or other section of the program, this additional cable loss will be added to or subtracted from the originally specified cable loss for default antenna height. e.g. if the original antenna height was defined at 30m and it is raised to 40m to test a different antenna height, the difference of 40m-30m =10m * cable loss per metre, will be added to cable loss. This is convenient if antenna heights are manually set for individual sites. Step 3i System data can be added to or removed from the Radio Mobile system database. If multiple systems are calculated, with similar system parameters, the system file can be stored in the program library for later use and lookup for other networks.
24 Antenna Patterns
Antenna patterns are stored in the antenna directory, under the Radio Mobile directory. Antenna patterns are stored as an .ant file. It is possible to create other antenna patterns for use by the program, if another antenna pattern is required. Data format is a single column of numbers specifying gain of the antenna (relative to 0 dB as maximum gain) at 1 increments around the antenna. The first number is the 0 maximum gain of the antenna. The gain is set as the 0 dB reference point. All other gain parameters are generally negative, representing lower gain than the front main lobe of the antenna. The first 360 data points represent 1 increments clockwise, horizontally, the EPlane, from a vertically polarized antenna (first 360 data points). The second, beginning at line 361 is the H-Plane pattern (vertical gain beginning at +90above the antenna, ending at -90 below the antenna). This covers the remaining 180 data entry points. Format of data is extrapolated to a 3 dimensional antenna pattern by Radio Mobile. Ian Brown, G3TVU has created an antenna utility to create different antenna patterns if required. The utility is located at http://www.g3tvu.co.uk/AntDiag.xls and is an Excel spreadsheet. Antenna pattern data can be entered at 10 points for both the E-plane and H-plane of an antenna. Intermediate 1 angles are extrapolated by the spreadsheet.
25 Network
A Network is the overall collection point for the base stations, mobiles, handhelds, etc. within a radio group. It also defines the relationship between Units, Systems and Networks. For each single or combined site coverage plot, all pieces of the puzzle are collected together in a Network. The network defines the relationship between components, which radio uses which system, etc. Each network can be thought of as a coverage Project, possibly in a different geographic area or for a different client or customer. If, for example, coverage of 5 repeaters in a city will be plotted, all must be defined and be members of the same common Network. The Network defines the frequency band for radio coverage. If a coverage plot is required for both a VHF and UHF system, they must be defined as different Networks; each network defined as a different frequency band. Version 3.9 52 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
These sizes are defined when a Network is created. Default numbers are large enough for most applications; however, there are always exceptions. If more components, base stations, mobiles etc. are required, it must be defined at this stage. Size of a network, allowing more Units, Systems or Networks can be changed later; however, all previous coverage plots and pictures will no longer be valid for the modified network. Step 4a Open an Existing Network If a Network has already been created, it may be reopened using Open Network. If changing coverage areas or moving to another coverage project, opening a new network will change the default files and directory to the next project.
25.3 Topology
Topology refers to the overall system layout and communication methods and architecture of a radio network. Voice networks are expected to transmit messages so that others can hear them the first time. Repeat transmissions are used in the real world, simply because a user requests a repeat voice transmission. It is normally expected that a voice message is transmitted only once. Voice communication is similar to being in a very noisy room, trying to carry on a conversation. If a person constantly has to repeat a statement because it cannot be heard above the noise in the room, communication is not reliable. Computers, on the other hand, do not care about repeat message transmission. Until a message is received with no errors, a computer can ask for a message re transmission as many time as required to get the message through. There are 2 other topology methods available within Radio Mobile. Data Net, Star Topology has 1 master station communicating with several distant outstations. Outstations are slaves and only respond when information is requested from them. They cannot initiate a message on their own. Some data transmission protocols have available a Report By Exception (RBE) mode, that allows a slave station to originate a message. Communication is usually polled by the master station. The biggest thing to keep in mind is that there is no collision detection or traffic cop maintaining order among message traffic. If a collision occurs, a message will be corrupted and the Master station has to poll all the outstations to find out any missed message traffic. Data Net, Cluster (Node/Terminal) is similar to an Ethernet network with routers. Essentially, any radio unit is assumed to be capable of communicating with any other radio unit. A node in the system can act as a repeater when necessary. Messages are addressed and rely on a network to get a message through using any available nodes. Radio Mobile will calculate paths, using as much iteration as necessary, to find the shortest successful path between units. If no path is found after the maximum number of iterations is reached, a link will be shown in red. Version 3.9 56 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
Step 6
Two other options are presented that may be used. Step 6a Check the box If a unit is set to Master, set all others as Slave. Depending on the network topology, a slave can only communicate with a master. Step 6b Check the box Slave unit must have a directional antenna pointing toward a master. This will correctly point an antenna at its master unit. These check boxes do not have to be used; they are there for convenience and assistance setting up the program.
25.4 Membership
Membership defines 3 parameters. First, it defines all the active units that are part of a specific network. Select a specific network and place a check mark in the active units for this particular calculation. This is useful if a coverage plot is required plus or minus one or more specific sites. It allows the difference in coverage area to be displayed plus or minus 1 or more sites simply by checking or not checking the sites within a network. Note that Units can be common between several networks. A unit represents a location. The parameters for that unit can be defined within several active networks. Each network defines a frequency band. If two different networks are defined, for example, one for VHF, the second for UHF multiple coverage maps can be created, one for each band or network. Units can be shared between networks. Ensure that the correct Units are selected as members of the correct Network and that the correct System is defined for each unit in each Network. Second, membership identifies the System associated with each unit. A system contains the specific operating parameters for a unit. A system specifies
25.5 Style
Style defines one of the ways a coverage plot can be presented. Coverage can be shown using 3 methods. Coverage can be shown using a pass/fail criteria, and single colour on the map, based on receiver threshold setting (sensitivity). Coverage can be shown using multiple colours (referred to as rainbow in the program) showing the variation of calculated signal levels around the map. A legend of 12 colours shows how the colours relate to calculated signal level. Style uses 3 colours, typically Green for good coverage, Yellow for marginal (within +/- 3 dB of receiver threshold) and red for no coverage. The receiver threshold refers to receiver threshold defined in the selected System. Another method for Style is to set the > (greater than) and < (less than) values equal to 0. The yellow area will not be plotted. The map will show red as fail and green as pass over the entire map area.
Actual method is selected in the program as part of the input parameters before calculating radio coverage. Version 3.9 59 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
Step 8b The 3 dB criteria can be modified to any value required. Set the difference in signal level from the receiver threshold. It can be set to any number from the 3 dB default. Step 8c When finished entering all these parameters, click on OK to close the Network Properties window.
Step 11e Select the length of radials used for polar coverage calculation. The program will calculate coverage along the length of each of these radial lines. They may be selected to be the same length as can be displayed on the map, or they may be shorter, allowing display of several repeaters and overlap areas on the same map. Step 11f select the azimuth for radials. 360 will give a complete circle. Use either 0.1 or 0.5 spacing for radial angular calculation. The more radials and smaller the angle between them, the higher the resolution, however, the longer the plot will take. Step 11g Antenna height at the central station can be changed, or the antenna programmed in the System associated with each radio unit may be used. Note that changing it here will change the antennas for all sites. Changing and selecting antennas as part of a System for each radio unit allows different antennas to be used at each site. Useful only when all antennas at all sites are the same. Step 11h Check Draw and the antenna pattern will be drawn in its own window. This is simply to check what is being used for antenna pattern. Close the antenna pattern window before proceeding.
Step 12h specify the range of signal levels for units selected. Either a minimum level can be specified, or a range of values can be specified in the units chosen. If a range is wanted, check the box that allows a high range level to be specified. Enter this higher level in the units specified.
Colours representing 12 signal levels can be changed in the polar coverage module. a. b. c. d. e. Open a polar coverage plot. Set the threshold signal method, S-units, V, dBm or dBV/m. In the Plot area, Select Rainbow Colour. In the Plot area, select Colour. The default colours for 12 different signal levels (in units selected) are shown. Colours can be changed and modified by selecting any of the 12 levels and defining them as various signal levels. f. There are several (7) predefined colour palettes that can be used for plots. They are labeled color.dat, color0.dat, color1.dat, etc. and can be selected from the polar plot window. They are simply a different list order of rainbow colours. 6. A graphical screen shows placement corner location of the rainbow signal level legend. The legend can be placed in any corner of the coverage plot. Ensure that it is not in the same corner as the elevation legend. The elevation legend defaults to the upper left corner of the plot. 7. A distance scale can be placed on the map to assist with determining relative distance and map scale. Click Edit, Distance Scale and select the position to place this scale using the graphical corner representation. The distance scale can be placed on any of the 4 corners of the map. The distance scale can display a number of distance scales, metres, kilometres, Nautical miles, feet or statute miles. 8. Map Corner Lat and Long can be displayed on the picture. Select Edit and Corner Coordinates. Each corner of the map will have the Lat and Long displayed, both in Degrees/Minutes/Seconds and Decimal Degrees. 9. Link direction in several calculations, it is possible to specify link direction. Coverage can be plotted from a repeater to a mobile or handheld or the reverse can be plotted, from mobile or handheld back to the repeater. This direction calculation is used to balance talk out and talk in of a repeater station. This is important and a useful comparison. If a radio system is designed so that mobiles and handhelds can receive a base or repeater, it is also important to ensure that the same mobiles and handhelds can talk back to the base receiver. Proper radio design includes analysis of the talk back path to more or less match signal received at a mobile or handheld Version 3.9 68 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
The map_link.txt file must be edited to allow use of the various Internet map files. Copy replaces and overwrites data from the coverage map with data from the geographic map Add Multiply multiplies values from the elevation map and geographic map. Bitwise
This will take some experimentation. There are differences in display; however, they are dependent on location and geographic maps selected. Experiment with several to obtain the desired output. Copy, for example, will overlay a roadmap over top of the coverage map. Step 13b Save the coverage plot including the map, to a named .jpeg file. The coverage plot merged with a map is not automatically saved when the program is closed.
30 Hot Keys
A number of Hot keys are defined within Radio Mobile. Menus may continue to be used; however, the Hot Keys will access various locations in the program more quickly. A list of these hot keys follows. F2 opens Radio Link. F3 opens Polar coverage. F4 opens Cartesian coverage. F5 opens Find Best site. F6 opens Route coverage. F7 opens Merge pictures. F9 opens Adjust map to picture/selection. Version 3.9 70 Copyright 2011 Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng.
Obstruction
Receive Level (dBm) Worst Fresnel Receive Level (V) Distance Rx (relative)
Radio links are displayed using line colours in the Style section. Green line between radio sites Calculated signal is greater than 3 dB above defined receiver threshold signal level. Yellow line between radio sites Calculated signal level is with 3 dB of defined receiver threshold signal level. Red line between radio sites Calculated signal level is less than 3 B below defined receiver threshold signal level. Note that the 3 dB variation can be changed to any value under Network and Style if required. 3 dB is simply the default unless changed to another value.
Similarly, Radio mobile can save a coverage plot as a file that can be overlayed onto Google Earth. Files must be saved as white and exported as a .png file. They can then be imported and overlayed on Google Earth as a coverage plot. Some experimentation with coverage colours may be required in order to see the coverage plot on Google Earth.
35 Summary
The Radio Mobile program is an extensive program for predicting radio coverage. This paper is meant to provide background information on radio coverage and describe how to get started with the program. There are many options within the program not covered by this article. Once getting started with the program, the user is encouraged to experiment, use and learn more of these options and parameters. Thank you to Ian Brown for his review and comment of this document. Many of his suggestions have been incorporated to improve documentation over time. Thank you to Roger Coud for his authorship of the program. Roger has also taught Radio Mobile program operation on a number of occasions, I was lucky enough to be part of one of these courses. Thank you, Roger. Brian J. Henderson, P. Eng. VE6ZS Calgary, Alberta, Canada